Pauline O'Reilly (Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I am in the precincts of Leinster House. I thank everyone for attending. It is great to see the regional spread of the delegation. It is critical that the institutions make provision in this regard, as outlined very well by Dr. Ryan.

I met Mr. Hannigan previously. It is very clear from all the evidence I have seen that the witnesses' institutions are continuing to serve their communities. For me, one of the clear ways to do this, considering that we are looking to the future, involves climate action. Climate action is one of the key reasons my party went into government but everybody across all parties will agree it represents the future economically and socially for communities. Quite rightly, there has been a lot of focus on research because more funding streams are required for the institutions, but one of the key ways to stay in touch with areas is through job creation in a very localised way. In order to do all the work we are committed to under the programme for Government, we need a major ramping up of apprenticeships. Where do all the representatives of the third level institutions see their role in that regard? Do the witnesses believe they are adequately supported in that role?